Travel Smart, Travel Safe
Travel Smart, Travel Safe
Published on September 16, 2021. EST READ TIME: 3 minutes
While most people agree that travelling is an exciting and rewarding experience, the same cannot be said about packing and managing logistics. Missing out on something important can be upsetting. In order to guide you towards having a blissful vacation, we have put together the ultimate international checklist, as follows.
Travel Essentials
1. Passport / Visa
Easily, the most critical document you will require no matter where you go, is your passport. It is important to be sure it is valid for the entire duration of your travel. You may also require a visa for your intended destination. Check beforehand whether it is a Paper Visa, E-Visa or Visa On Arrival (VOA) so you can obtain it in time for your trip. It is usually recommended to carry printouts, hard copies of documents as well.
2. Travel Insurance
An often ignored thing, which should be very high up on the list is international travel insurance to cover you in case of any mishaps, injuries or illness. Check online to compare plans before deciding. It is advisable to get the travel insurance while booking the tickets, so as to not forget doing this later carry printout of it as well.
3. Medications
Apart from stocking up on your regular ongoing medication, it is also advisable to carry other basic medicines such as painkillers, paracetamol tablets, antacids etc. Depending on the country you’re traveling to you may also wish to carry diarrhoea medicine, insect repellents etc.
4. Travel Bag
The choice of your luggage is dependent on the duration of the trip, areas being visited, where you will be staying and general travel itinerary. It saves a lot of physical stress by having a comfortable bag and/or suitcase to accommodate your items. Remember to keep some space free since you may want to indulge in some shopping before returning.
5. Travel Adaptor
Different countries have different wall outlets for plugging devices. It is worth checking beforehand and buying a plug adapter before you travel. You may also buy one locally or invest in a universal travel adapter for future trips to different locations. Choose one with a built-in voltage control mechanism.
6. Money
International credit and debit cards are very helpful to withdraw amounts once you have reached your destination. It is also beneficial to keep some cash in the local currency before you fly out. Many people recommend carrying a few US dollars as they come in very handy during money exchange in case of emergencies.
7. Entertainment
Be prepared for flight delays or long rides to and fro while you travel. While most smartphones have several features to keep you entertained, based on your interests you may also carry along paperback books or an e-reader. Headphones come in very handy for solo travellers to keep amused without disturbing others. Those for whom the phone camera does not suffice may want to bring along a proper camera with its accessories and carry bag.
8. Clothing
Your attire is also dependent on the places being visited, the weather, the terrain and the activities you intend to engage in. do your research so as to avoid over or under packing. For example, while visiting the middle east you would prefer light fabric clothes, head gear, sun protection while visiting colder countries you would need to carry windbreakers, jackets and at times thermal inner wear. Also, be sensitive to local traditions and customs and dress appropriately in public.
9. Other Considerations
Keep a list of important numbers in your wallet, in case you lose your phone. Also, keep the address and contact number of the local Indian Embassy / Consulate in case of an unforeseen emergency. Keeping mini-sized toiletries helps in saving space and avoids the expense of buying them later on. Luggage locks are also advised in case you do not have combination locks in your luggage bags.
Conclusion
Travelling today has changed drastically due to Covid-19 guidelines. To make the most of your trip while ensuring your safety, do thorough research of local Covid instructions and invest in a comprehensive international travel insurance to safeguard your health and related expenses.
Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.
RELATED ARTICLES
Travelling during COVID? Make sure you pack these 10 essentials
What gadgets you should and should not carry when travelling?
Travelling Overseas? Know These 5 Ultimate Packing Tips for Easy Travel